Ginger Hot Chocolate Recipe

We tend to associate certain tastes with specific times and places in our lives. Grilled corn might call to mind summer afternoons, apple pie may taste like autumn, and of course, turkey and mashed potatoes bring thoughts of Thanksgiving. Well heads up: This rich, sweet, tasty drink is going to make its mark on your memory, so choose a favorite holiday, season, or place to enjoy your first sip. Forever after, a taste of ginger hot chocolate will transport you right back.

"This ginger hot chocolate is rich, creamy, and full of flavor," says recipe developer Susan Olayinka of The Flexible Fridge, adding: "The ground ginger gives it a warm, spicy kick that's perfect for chilly evenings. It's also pretty darn delicious if I do say so myself."

As for how best to enjoy the drink, Olayinka says: "This hot chocolate is delicious on its own, but it would also be great with some gingerbread cookies or a slice of gingerbread cake." She also comments that "There are a few ways you could change up this recipe to make it your own. For example, you could try using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate, or add a splash of rum or bourbon for an adults-only treat. You could also experiment with different spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg. Whatever you do, just have fun with it!"

To make this delectable drink, you'll need whole milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, ground ginger, whipped cream, and mini marshmallows.

When asked about which ingredients stand out the most, Olayinka says: "I love anything ginger flavored and this hits drink the spot! The cocoa powder gives it a rich chocolate flavor, while the ground ginger adds a warm and spicy kick. The marshmallows and whipped cream make it extra indulgent and delicious." Basically, every element enhances this tasty drink.

To start the recipe off, add the whole milk to a medium-sized saucepan and begin to warm it over medium heat. As the milk warms up, stir in the cocoa powder, sugar, and ground ginger and whisk them into the milk. Heat the mixture until it comes to a simmer and the sugar has dissolved, which will take 5 minutes give or take.

"It's important to whisk the milk mixture constantly while it's cooking," Olayinka says, "Otherwise, you'll end up with grainy hot chocolate." She cautions, "Also, be careful not to let the milk mixture boil — once it starts to simmer, turn the heat down so that it doesn't scorch."

Once the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the milk and the mixture is nice and hot, cut the heat and carefully pour the ginger cocoa into mugs. Then top the mugs with whipped cream and marshmallows — and any other extras you want, like cocoa powder or chocolate flakes — and serve the drinks immediately.

This sweet, spiced beverage is best made fresh, so plan ahead if you want to serve it to guests. "I wouldn't recommend making the hot chocolate itself ahead of time, since it tends to get grainy when reheated," Olayinka says, adding: "However, you can prepare all the ingredients." And don't forget to experiment or try transforming this stuff into a warm cocktail!

And if you do have any extra, while it may not be as sublime as the fresh stuff, it won't go bad. "Leftover hot chocolate can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, just reheat it gently on the stove before serving," explains Olayinka.